07/13/2026
Big news for anyone handling a loved one's estate in Florida: as of July 1, 2026, the state made some of the most significant updates to probate law we've seen in years.
Here's what's changing:
→ Summary administration (the faster, simpler probate option) is now available for estates up to $150,000 — double the old $75,000 limit
→ Safe deposit boxes are easier for personal representatives to access — no more separate court petition just to get inside
→ Personal representatives have more power to enforce their authority when someone (or some bank) won't cooperate
→ Income tax refunds up to $5,000 can go directly to a surviving spouse or child without probate (up from $2,500)
→ Bank accounts up to $2,000 per institution can be released to family without probate (up from $1,000)
→ Small intestate estates (no will, no real estate) can avoid probate entirely for up to $20,000 in personal property (up from $10,000)
The takeaway: more Florida families will be able to settle a loved one's estate faster, with less court involvement and less cost.
We broke down all the details — including what hasn't changed — on our blog. https://www.merharlaw.com/blog/big-changes-to-florida-probate-law-july-2026
If you're navigating probate right now or want to know how these updates affect your family, give us a call. We're happy to help.
